Many environmental problems seem to be too large for us to think that
anything we do could help. We cannot patch the hole in the ozone layer.
We cannot rescue a vanishing species.

But when it comes to nonpoint source pollution,
there are many things we can do, or stop doing, which can have a real
impact. Best Management Practices (BMPs) are methods we can all
use that lessen the impact of activities which might harm the environment.

All it takes is paying attention to what we and those around
us do. Then we can see how what we do affects where we live.

If some factory, or business, or town, was dumping something
in the water that was washing downstream and making us sick, we could
follow that pollutant back to its source and identify the culprit. That
would be the point source.

But with polluted runoff, also called nonpoint
source pollution, the problem is coming from many sources, mostly
in tiny amounts. The source cannot be identified. It would be like finding
a single bacterium in the stream and tracing it back to the cow whose
manure washed into the water upstream. Since we cannot follow the pollutant
upstream, we must remove it before the water carries it downstream.

What can we do? Here are some ideas, along with some links
to more information.

Dispose of used oil, antifreeze, paints, and other household
chemicals properly. Do not pour them on the ground or down a drain.
Clean up spilled brake fluid, oil, grease, and antifreeze. Do not hose
them into the street or onto the ground where they can eventually reach
local streams and groundwater. If you are working outdoors, or in a
building with a dirt floor, follow these steps:

1. Drain fluid into a pan and pour it into
a sealable container. 2. Take the container to a household hazardous waste drop-off site.
3. If your community does not have a local drop-off site for household
hazardous wastes, regional or area pick-ups are often scheduled.

Traditional septic systems, leach fields and lagoons are not always the
best choice for wastewater. Ask your county commission or USDA Soil
Conservation Service to make information available on alternatives.

MINING

Ask the Missouri Department of Natural Resources
to monitor local mining practices.

Be willing to voice your concerns about acid mine drainage
and reclamation projects in your area.

Encourage best management practices for both active
and closed mines.

FORESTRY

Use proper logging and erosion control practices
on your forestlands, such as proper construction, maintenance, and closure
of logging roads and skid trails.

Report questionable logging practices to the appropriate
officials or agencies.